However, we’ve heard feedback from our members and read online comments about glass kettles shattering unexpectedly.
Some comments even express concerns about glass kettles suddenly exploding but we’ve found no evidence of this extreme fault in kettles purchased from well-known brands.
Having a glass kettle break while using it can be a distressing experience, but what might cause this? Read on to find out why and how glass kettles shatter and get tips to help prevent it from happening to you.
What might cause a glass kettle to shatter?
Glass kettles simply aren’t as durable as plastic or stainless-steel kettles, and can easily chip or crack if you accidentally knock them.
We’ve tested this particular kettle in our test lab and didn’t find any defects, but have seen online that some owners have reported them cracking or shattering, even when not in use.
We’ve also received feedback from other Which? members about the same issue. One member wrote: ‘It’s remarkably fragile and a knock on it with the tap while filling it broke the glass enough to render it unusable’.
What the manufacturer said
When we asked Russell Hobbs about the first incident mentioned, they told us:
‘It is common for glass kettles to break around the rim when the kettle has been filled via the spout. This can happen if the spout has been in contact with the tap and can result in fractures within the glass that are not always noticeable. When the water inside the kettle heats up when it’s switched on, these cracks can spread, which could potentially cause the kettle to break.
'Within our instruction manuals we do stress that the user should remove or lift the lid for filling, thus removing the potential for the glass to get damaged.'
‘The glass jug has been specially treated to make it stronger, more durable and safer than ordinary glass, however, it is not unbreakable. If dropped or struck extremely hard, it may break or weaken, and could at a later time shatter into many small pieces without apparent cause.’
Out of the 300+ online Amazon reviews for the Sage Tea Maker, a few mention broken glass, but these instances occurred after using the product for over three years or when cleaning it.
Aren't glass kettles made from toughened glass?
Yes, kettles made by well-known brands are more likely to be made from either tempered or borosilicate glass. These types of glass are heat-resistant and capable of handling high temperatures of up to 170°C. They are also more resistant to mechanical stress, so are less likely to shatter than ordinary glass.
Tempered glass Borosilicate glassAs well as using tougher materials like these, manufacturers are also obliged to carry out rigorous safety tests to meet legal requirements designed to keep us safe while using their products.
How to avoid damaging a glass kettle
Despite being made from tougher materials, glass kettles are still less durable than those made of plastic or steel, and extra care needs to be taken when using and cleaning them.
These quick tips should help to prevent accidental damage.
Clean gently to avoid scratches Handle with extra care Avoid sudden temperature changes undefinedsource https://www.which.co.uk/news/article/why-glass-kettles-shatter-and-how-to-prevent-it-aRjZ02W7NgiM